Irish Defence Force survives Tongan scare to progress to the semi-finals
The Irish Defence Force will progress to the semi finals of the 2025 International Defence Rugby Competition after finishing second in Pool A following their nail-biting clash against a resurgent Tongan side.
The Irish came into the match only needing to secure 2 points to overtake Zambia in the standings and secure their place in the semi-finals alongside the UK Armed Forces.
There was no viable road for the Tongan side to sneak into the semi finals following bruising defeats in earlier games, but they were in the position to cause an upset and prevent an Irish semi-final berth.
A hat-trick in the first half by Irish outside-centre Chloe Farrell and three tries from Tonga in the first half saw the two sides saw both sides level at 19-19 at half time.
The Tongans came out fighting in the second half with a try from Lesila Fakahokotau, but the Irish struck back with Katie Lee forcing her way past the Tongan defence to level the scoreboard again at 26-26.
A penalty then went in Ireland's favour, granting them the opportunity to begin rebuilding their lead again and Patricia Coote added the 3 points to build their lead up to 26-29.
Then a superb run from Farrell saw her score her fourth try of the game, as the Tongans began to realise that the game may be slipping away from them.
Ireland were then awarded another penalty kick and they extended their lead to 26-39.
But Tonga would get the final say with a last-ditch try from Loseti Leota, but by then it was already too late.
The final whistle sounded and the Irish Defence Force celebrate a semi-final berth with a 31-39 victory over Tonga, finishing second in Pool A on 9 points.
They will progress out of Pool A along with UKAF with the final two spots in the semi-final being decided in the final Pool B matches on 26 August.
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